Top Things to Do, Places to Stay & Getting Around Orlando

Exploring the Best Things to Do in Orlando

Orlando is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida, known for its thrilling theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. But beyond the big theme parks, Orlando offers many exciting activities for travelers of all ages and interests.

Outdoor Activities in Orlando

With its sunny weather and natural beauty, Orlando is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. Here are some top options:

• Take an airboat ride through the Florida Everglades to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife up close.
• Kayak or canoe on Shingle Creek or other local waterways and see Orlando from a unique vantage point.
• Go fishing, boating, or swimming at one of Orlando's many lakes such as Lake Jessup, Lake Down, or Lake Conway.
• Play a round of golf at one of Orlando's championship golf courses like Bay Hill Club & Lodge or Grand Cypress Golf Club.
• Rent a bike and explore scenic bike trails like the West Orange Trail or the Cady Way Trail.
• Go horseback riding at a ranch like Triple O Ranch or Horses of course Inc.

Exciting Theme Parks

Home to some of the world's most famous theme parks, Orlando offers thrills and excitement for visitors of all ages:

• Spend multiple days exploring the 4 theme parks at Walt Disney World including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
• Ride cutting edge roller coasters and enjoy immersive themed areas at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
• SeaWorld Orlando allows you to see whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life up close.
• LEGOLAND has rides, shows, and interactive attractions tailored for families with young children.
• Fun Spot America is a more affordable option with thrill rides and a massive roller coaster.

Family-Friendly Activities

Beyond theme parks, there are many family-friendly things to do in Orlando suitable for kids of all ages:

• The Orlando Science Center has fun interactive exhibits to teach kids about science and technology.
• WonderWorks is an indoor amusement park with interactive activities focused on science and the human body.
• Skeletons: Animals Unveiled! showcases animal skeletons from giraffes to dinosaurs at ICON Park.
• SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium at ICON Park houses thousands of aquatic creatures to discover.
• Madame Tussauds Wax Museum enables you to take selfies with wax figures of celebrities and historic figures.
• Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium has quirky exhibits showcasing the bizarre and unusual.

Arts and Culture

Beyond theme parks, Orlando offers plenty of options to experience arts and culture:

• The Orlando Museum of Art showcases inspiring exhibits of American art and artifacts.
• Attend a performance by the Orlando Ballet or the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra.
• Stroll through the historic neighborhoods of Winter Park to admire the lovely architecture and scenery.
• Visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art to see the world's most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
• Check out creative exhibitions and programming at the downtown Orlando Public Library.
• Shop for locally made art, crafts, jewelry and more at the Orlando Farmers Market.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Once the sun goes down, Orlando comes alive with plenty of nightlife and entertainment options:

• Laugh out loud at the Blue Man Group's hilarious theatrical performances at Universal CityWalk.
• See a concert by national touring acts at venues like the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts or Hard Rock Live.
• Sip creative cocktails and dance the night away at venues in downtown Orlando's lively nightclub scene.
• Listen to jazz at places like Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts or The Plaza Live.
• Bowl the night away at retro bowling alleys like Silver Strike Bowling or Kings Dining & Entertainment.
• Catch a movie on the giant screen at the Cinemark theater at Artegon Marketplace.

Where to Stay in Orlando

With its plethora of theme parks and attractions, Orlando offers many hotel options from budget-friendly to upscale:

• For luxury, stay on-site at a Disney or Universal resort hotel to enjoy prime theme park access and amenities.
• Drury Inn & Suites Orlando is a more affordable option near theme parks with free breakfast and nightly kickback receptions.
• Coconut Point Inn is a charming bed and breakfast in Winter Park near Rollins College.
• For budget rates, check out mid-range chains like Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn, and SpringHill Suites.
• Rent a condo or house through Airbnb or VRBO to save on costs by cooking some of your own meals.
• Extended stay hotels like Homewood Suites by Hilton can offer extra space and kitchens for longer stays.

Getting Around Orlando

Orlando offers a variety of transportation options to get around town:

• The LYNX public bus system services downtown Orlando with routes to theme parks and other major destinations.
• SunRail is a commuter rail line with several stations from DeBary to Poinciana.
• Rent a car to freely explore Orlando's sprawling landscape at your own pace.
• Taxis or rideshares like Uber and Lyft are readily available, though costs can add up.
• Many hotels offer free shuttles to major theme parks and attractions.
• I-Ride Trolley services International Drive with stops at hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions.

With its famous theme parks, natural beauty, and variety of attractions, Orlando offers something for every type of traveler. Plan your trip using this guide on the top things to do, where to stay, and how to get around Orlando!

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Orlando?

The best times to visit Orlando are from mid-March through mid-May during the spring and mid-September through November during the fall. The weather is warm and pleasant without being too hot and humid. Crowds are also not as heavy during the shoulder seasons.

How many days do you need for a trip to Orlando?

Most people need at least 5-7 days to properly experience Orlando's top theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. You may need additional days if you want to explore more of Orlando's attractions, activities, arts and culture.

Is Orlando safe for tourists?

Yes, Orlando is generally very safe for tourists. Like any major city, common sense precautions should be taken, but violent crime rates are low. Theme parks have visible security and the tourist areas are well-populated.

What is the best way to get around Orlando?

Having a rental car is the best way to get around Orlando and its surrounding areas. You can also use rideshares, the LYNX bus system, or the SunRail commuter train. Many hotels also provide transportation to theme parks.

What is there to do in Orlando besides theme parks?

Some top attractions beyond theme parks include airboat rides through the Everglades, kayaking on lakes and rivers, fishing, golfing, museums like the Orlando Science Center, shopping and dining at Disney Springs, Universal CityWalk or boutique-lined Park Ave in Winter Park.